Communications Specialist

The Communications Specialist is responsible for managing Newcomb Institute's communications channels including digital, social, and print media. Work will include drafting or finalizing content for communications channels, supporting strategic marketing of Newcomb Institute and our events and activities, building connections with other academic institutes and scholars focused on gender equity, building connections with potential employers interested in hiring those trained on gender equity, and increasing brand awareness to showcase the Institute's work across academic audiences as well as users of gender equity research such as policy makers and advocates. This includes implementing strategies for growing engagement, utilizing different media platforms effectively, search engine marketing, monitoring analytics, being responsive to media and marketing trends, and crafting clear, compelling, and brand-aligned content for use across communication channels. This position will work closely with Newcomb Institute's Director of Communications and Graphic Designer & Web Specialist and will also interact frequently with other departments within Newcomb Institute to drive the promotion of our events, grant and internship opportunities, student and alumni engagement, and research.

As a leading gender equity institute and academic center that is preparing the next generation of gender equity scholars and leaders, we are looking for a candidate who can raise Newcomb Institute's profile nationally and globally, as well as on campus and within New Orleans and Louisiana. A background in communications including digital and social media in areas of gender equity in research or higher education is ideal.

• Expertise in crafting messages and communications targeting different constituencies, including national and global research communities, gender equity focused programs and initiatives, and academic communities (students, faculty, alums)

• Expertise in digital and social media platforms

• Proficiency in social and email management tools (e.g., Sprout Social, Mailchimp, Bitly, Linktree)

• Proficiency in conversion of social science research to social media posts, policy briefs, blogs or commentaries for a general audience.

• Thorough knowledge of current social media and SEO/SEM best practices

• Creativity and entrepreneurial skills

• Follow-through ability and attention to accuracy and detail

• Excellent organizational skills, including the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines

• Strong copywriting and copyediting skills for clear, compelling, and brand-aligned messaging

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Canva

• Analytical skills and experience using social media analytics tools

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

• Bachelor's degree

• Three years of experience in communications, digital media, social media, public relations, and/or marketing

• Background in communications for digital and social media focused on gender equity issues or social science research

• Interest in gender equity issues, reproductive health and rights, gender-based violence, and feminist civic and community engagement

• Expertise in image and video editing

• Project management platform experience (e.g., Asana)

• Ability and willingness to occasionally work evenings and weekends to cover important events

• Track record of growing audiences and engagement on social media